Kune Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Lonavala in Maharashtra. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and trekkers visiting the Western Ghats. Many travelers visit Kune Falls as part of their trip to Lonavala, a well-known hill station between Mumbai and Pune.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kune Falls from major nearby cities. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Mumbai or Pune to Kune Falls – Main Options

Train

Taking the train is a popular and affordable way to reach Lonavala, the nearest railway station to Kune Falls. Trains run frequently from Mumbai and Pune, making it convenient for day trips or overnight stays.

• The Lonavala railway station is well connected to Mumbai CST, Dadar, and Pune stations via regular local and express trains, with travel times ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the train type.

• Train fares from Mumbai to Lonavala typically range between ₹50 and ₹150 for second class and sleeper coaches, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers.

• During weekends and holidays, trains can get crowded, so booking tickets in advance through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to secure a seat.

• From Lonavala station, Kune Falls is about 5 km away, accessible by local taxis or auto-rickshaws, which are available outside the station at reasonable fares.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause delays due to heavy rains and fog in the Western Ghats, so plan extra travel time during this period.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and economical way to reach Lonavala from Mumbai and Pune. State transport and private buses run frequently, catering to different budgets and comfort levels.

• MSRTC and private operators run regular buses from Mumbai’s Dadar and Borivali bus stations to Lonavala, with journey times of about 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares vary from ₹70 to ₹150 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, non-AC, or deluxe services, with deluxe buses offering more comfort for a slightly higher price.

• From Pune, buses depart from Shivajinagar and Swargate bus stands to Lonavala every 30 minutes, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Once in Lonavala, local buses or shared autos can take you closer to Kune Falls, but these may be infrequent; hiring a taxi or cab is often more convenient.

• During the monsoon, roads can be slippery and traffic heavy due to tourist inflow; traveling early in the day helps avoid delays and crowded buses.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving your own car or renting one is a flexible and comfortable way to reach Kune Falls, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace.

• Kune Falls is located about 65 km from Mumbai and 40 km from Pune via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH48), making the drive scenic and relatively quick, usually taking 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

• The route includes toll plazas on the expressway, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges typically range between ₹100 and ₹200 depending on your entry and exit points.

• There are several rest stops and dhabas along the expressway where you can take breaks and enjoy local snacks, which is helpful during longer drives.

• Parking near Kune Falls is limited but available at designated spots; arriving early in the morning is advisable to secure parking and avoid crowds.

• During monsoon, the roads can be wet and slippery, so drive carefully and avoid night travel in the Western Ghats due to fog and poor visibility.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Mumbai, Pune, or Lonavala is a convenient option if you prefer a hassle-free journey without driving yourself.

• Ola and Uber operate in Mumbai and Pune and can be booked for outstation trips to Lonavala and Kune Falls; fares typically range from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on vehicle type and distance.

• Local taxi operators in Lonavala offer half-day or full-day packages to Kune Falls and nearby attractions, which can be cost-effective if traveling in groups.

• Prepaid taxi counters are available at Mumbai and Pune airports and railway stations, ensuring fixed fares and avoiding bargaining hassles.

• Booking your cab in advance during weekends and holidays is recommended due to high demand and limited availability.

• Taxi drivers usually know the best routes and parking spots near Kune Falls, which helps save time and avoid confusion in the hilly terrain.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kune Falls to help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or MSRTC websites at least a week in advance, especially during weekends and monsoon season, to ensure availability and better fares.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel up, and keep FASTag ready for tolls on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to avoid delays at toll plazas.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid city traffic and reach Lonavala or Kune Falls before noon, which is ideal for sightseeing and parking availability.

• From Lonavala station or bus stand, hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Kune Falls; agree on the fare beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Carry bottled water and snacks, as food options near Kune Falls are limited; also pack rain gear during monsoon to stay comfortable.

• Plan your return trip with enough daylight, as public transport frequency reduces after evening, and roads can be challenging to navigate in the dark.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID and keep your valuables secure, as tourist spots can attract pickpockets, especially during crowded weekends and holidays.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water and avoid street food near the falls to prevent stomach issues, as hygiene standards vary in small towns.

• Book your tickets and cabs through official apps or counters to avoid scams and inflated prices common in tourist areas.

• Use local transport like auto-rickshaws for short distances but confirm fares before starting; for longer trips, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safety and convenience.

• Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on slippery and uneven paths near the waterfall.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy rains can cause landslides or road closures in the Western Ghats, affecting your plans.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kune Falls is during the monsoon and post-monsoon months when the waterfall is at its fullest and the surroundings are lush green. However, travel conditions can be challenging during heavy rains.

Winter months offer pleasant weather and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and trekking, while summer can be hot and less comfortable for outdoor activities.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when roads and trains are crowded with holiday travelers.

• Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and slippery roads, so plan extra travel time and carry rain gear to stay safe.

• Early mornings and late afternoons are best for starting your journey to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Winter months from November to February offer clear weather and less crowd, making it a good time for relaxed visits and photography.

Arrival at Kune Falls & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Kune Falls, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-arranged taxis or local autos are the best way to reach the waterfall entrance. The area is peaceful but can get crowded on weekends.

Accommodation options are mostly in Lonavala town, which is about 5 km away. You can find budget hotels, guesthouses, and resorts catering to different preferences. Local commute includes autos, taxis, and rental bikes for exploring nearby attractions.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available in Lonavala for safe and reliable travel. It is advisable to exit the station or bus stand through main gates where official taxis wait, avoiding touts and unauthorized cabs.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kune Falls is best done via train or car from Mumbai or Pune, depending on your comfort and schedule. Trains offer an affordable and scenic route to Lonavala, while driving gives you flexibility to explore the Western Ghats at your own pace.

Planning ahead by booking tickets, starting early, and preparing for seasonal weather will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With this guide, you can confidently organize your journey to Kune Falls and experience the natural beauty of this stunning waterfall without hassle.